Why grow grafted tomatoes?

Just recently I read an article which mentioned growing tomato plants that had been grafted. This is a procedure quite common in developing dwarf varieties of fruit trees or to produce more fruit. It is also used to produce roses that either have more blooms and/or hardier plants. I just couldn’t see why tomatoes would be grafted.

Grafting is a propagation method where the tissue of two plants is fused together. The bottom part of the plant that contributes roots and support is called the rootstock. The upper part contributing leaves, flowers, fruits and stems, is called the scion. The grafting is done for a variety of reasons. One is to shorten the height of a tree. Another is to join vigorous roots to a plant that produces superior fruit but has a weak root system.

In the case of tomatoes, grafting was originally developed by the tomato industry that grew their product in greenhouses. Once tomato growers moved from outdoor fields to indoor beds, they found after a few years the soil in the hoop houses developed a build up of various diseases. Newer varieties had root systems which were resistant to these diseases and problems but did not have the better flavor of the traditional plants. Consequently, they developed grafted tomatoes. Not only was the quality improved but also a huge boost in quantity.

Why should a homeowner be interested? One reason is if you garden in the same plot year after year and your tomatoes do not do as well as in the past. Another scenario is you do not have time, space or energy for a large garden but enjoy delicious homegrown tomatoes. A grafted tomato produces huge quantities in small spaces like patios or balconies.

Well if you see grafted tomatoes at the nurseries this year, I would expect them to have a hefty price because each plant is hand grafted but considering the benefits, it might be a good investment. If you want to see what is involved in grafting tomatoes, there is a good video showing the process and it becomes quite clear what is involved and why you probably will not consider this a do-it-yourself project. Check this site:www.johnnyseeds.com/t-video_tomato_grafting.aspx
From a grower’s view, here is another site to check out:http://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/graftingtomato/tomato_grafting.pdf

Remember Gardens’ BIG DAY in Lewistown, IL on Saturday April 6 from 8:30 to 3 at Dickson Mounds. Lots of good information, sessions, lunch and door prizes for only $25. Call for registration soon as seating is limited (309) 543-3308 or see the whole flyer at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/fmpt